Travel warnings

As your travel insurance partner, your safety is our utmost priority. To keep you informed, Travel by Us monitors world events closely and releases travel warnings as well as general advice on this page.

Our primary source of travel alerts comes from the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (DFAT). See www.smarttraveller.gov.au for more information.

Please check to see if any of your travel destinations are included in the listings below and by researching Smartraveller. Your cover may be impacted by a ‘Do not travel’ status.

Get in touch

All foreign destinations and Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Last updated: 18 March 2020. Still current. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared COVID-19 a pandemic. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade now advises all Australians do not travel overseas at this time. This is our highest advice level (level 4 of 4).

If you are already overseas and wish to return to Australia, we recommend you do so as soon as possible by commercial means. Regardless of your destination, age or health, our advice is do not travel at this time.

As more countries close their borders or introduce travel restrictions, overseas travel is becoming more complex and difficult. You may not be able to return to Australia when you had planned to. Consider whether you have access to health care and support systems if you get sick while overseas. If you decide to return to Australia, do so as soon as possible. Commercial options may become less available.

If you are overseas and cannot, or do not want to, return to Australia, follow the advice of local authorities. Take care to minimise your risk of exposure to coronavirus including by self-isolating. If you choose to stay, note our ability to provide consular assistance in some places may be limited due to restrictions on movement and other services.

If you decide to return to Australia, you will now be required to self-isolate for 14 days. This applies to all travellers, including Australian citizens. For details see the Australian Border Force website.

Contact your airline, travel agent or insurance company to discuss your travel plans and options for cancelling or postponing current bookings, or to arrange commercial flights back to Australia.

All cruise ships which have sailed from a foreign port have been banned from entering Australian ports for 30 days.

The advice has been issued for two principal reasons:

There may be a higher risk of contracting COVID-19 overseas. You may come in contact with more people than usual, including during long-haul flights and in crowded airports. Health care systems in some countries may come under strain and may not be as well-equipped as Australia’s or have the capacity to support foreigners. You may not have your normal support networks overseas.

Overseas travel has become more complex and unpredictable. Many countries are introducing entry or movement restrictions. These are changing often and quickly. Your travel plans may be disrupted. You may be placed in quarantine or denied entry to some countries, and you may need to self-quarantine on return to Australia. Think about what this might mean for your health, and your family, work or study responsibilities.

All of the above advice has also been provided to Australian Government staff, who have been instructed to instead use video-conferencing and other communication technologies as much as possible.

The Foreign Minister decided on 17 March to offer voluntary departures globally for all dependants of staff at our overseas posts, staff at high risk due to underlying health conditions and staff the head of mission considers non-essential for ongoing operations.

Italy and Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Last updated: 11 March 2020. Italian authorities have extended measures to restrict the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) across all of Italy. As a result, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade now advise you to reconsider your need to travel to Italy. DFAT recommends you do not travel to Lombardy and other provinces in the north, which include Milan and Venice (see Travel for details). If you decide to stay in Italy, follow the advice of local authorities. Airports are open, but expect travel disruptions. If you’re returning to Australia from Italy, as an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you’ll need to self-isolate for 14 days on arrival in Australia from 1800 (AEDT) on 11 March 2020. Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are travelling to or through for any other entry or transit restrictions.

South Korea and Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Last updated: 7 March 2020. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has raised its level of advice for South Korea to: Reconsider your need to travel overall and Do not travel to Daegu due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Smartraveller now advise Australians to reconsider travel to South Korea. If you’re returning to Australia from South Korea, as an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you’ll need to self-isolate for 14 days on arrival in Australia. There’s a heightened risk of sustained local transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19). We now also advise you not to travel to Daegu because of the significant outbreak of COVID-19 there. If you’re in South Korea, monitor your health closely and follow the advice of local authorities.

China and Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Last updated: 25th Feb 2020. Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (CoV) is a new strain of coronavirus that has not been previously identified in humans. The new, or “novel” coronavirus, now called 2019-nCoV, had not previously detected before the outbreak was reported in Wuhan, China in December 2019. Initial human infections of the novel type of coronaviruses were acquired from exposure to animals at a live animal market in Wuhan. On 20 January, Chinese authorities confirmed the novel coronavirus is spreading person-to-person, with medical workers in Wuhan confirmed to have contracted the disease from patients they had been treating. It remains unknown how easily the virus spreads from person-to-person. Common symptoms include a fever, cough and difficulty breathing. Severe cases can cause pneumonia, kidney failure, and even death. If you are considering travelling to any destination with cases of COVID-19, you are recommend to take the following actions:

Talk to your doctor before travelling with young children, babies or an elderly person; if you are pregnant; if you have a weak immune system, or have a chronic medical condition.

Read the travel advice for your destination. There is a heightened risk of sustained local transmission in some countries, including at this stage Japan and South Korea.

Generally, when you can claim

You’re covered if you purchased prior to 19 Jan 2020. If your travel insurance was purchased prior to 19 January, then yes, your travel insurance policy will cover cancellation claims related to Coronavirus, up to your plan’s limits*. This could include assisting you with flight cancellation costs, tour cancellation costs, and accommodation cancellations costs. We only cover cancellations if the destinations you are travelling to have been assigned a ‘Do Not Travel’ advisory warning by the Australian Government at Smartraveller.gov.au. We do not cover cancellation for change or mind or fear.

Generally when you can’t claim

You’re not covered if you purchased after 20 Jan 2020. If you purchased travel insurance after 20 January 2020 you will not be covered for any cancellation claims related to coronavirus. This is due to the fact that as of 20 January, the virus outbreak was widely publicised, and health and travel authorities had advised that travellers take all necessary precautions.

If you are looking to buy travel insurance now – your policy will no cover you for the coronavirus (medical or cancellation) – this is due to the fact that as of 20 January, the virus outbreak was widely publicised, and health and travel authorities had advised that travellers take all necessary precautions. Customers purchasing travel insurance post 20 January do so in the knowledge that travel may be impacted by COVID-19.

Indonesia, Bali and Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Last updated: 02 March 2020. Still current at: 04 March 2020. The Indonesian Government has confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in Indonesia. Australians should note the global situation with COVID-19 is changing very quickly. Read our bulletin on COVID-19 for advice on measures to reduce the risk of infection. Talk to your doctor before travelling if you are in an at-risk group. Subscribe to Smartraveller for the latest updates.

Mount Agung is an active volcano in Bali. Ash from the volcano could disrupt flights and airport operations. Contact your airline or tour operator directly for up-to-date information. If you’re in Bali, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities. Exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia overall. General advice:

There’s a high risk of terrorist attack in Indonesia. Australians have been killed and injured in past attacks. Be aware of dates and places that could be terrorist targets.

There has been increased tension, including demonstrations and violence, in towns in Papua and West Papua provinces since August 2019.

Petty and violent crime occur in Indonesia. Drinks may be spiked or mixed with toxic substances. Crimes involving taxis and taxi drivers occur. Solo women are at higher risk.

Be alert in taxis, crowds, bars and nightclubs.

Legal disputes over real estate are common. Before entering into an agreement or providing financial details, do your research and get legal advice.

Natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, volcanoes and tsunamis occur. Domestic and international flights can be disrupted. Follow the advice of local authorities. Monitor media for updates.

Iran and Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Last updated: 29th Feb 2020. Still current. Australia’s Chief Medical Officer has advised that there is a high level of concern about widespread community transmission of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Iran. There have been many deaths. The health care system will likely struggle to cope with a large outbreak. Airlines are reducing or stopping flights into and out of Iran. Medical evacuation is not likely to be possible.

Noting the other risks in Iran, including to your safety, DFAT now advises Australians ‘do not travel’ to Iran. If you’re in Iran, leave while commercial options are available. Some countries have put in place restrictions on travellers coming out of Iran. From 1 March, if you’re an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or immediate family, returning from Iran to Australia you’ll need to self-isolate for 14 days from the time you left Iran.

The Philippines

Last updated: 13 Jan 2020. Still current at: 14 Jan 2020. Taal Volcano, in the southern Luzon province of Batangas, erupted on 12 January 2020. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has raised the alert level to four (4 out of 5), meaning an “explosive eruption” could happen in the coming hours or days. Local authorities have increased increased the exclusion zone to 14 kms from the volcano’s crater. Follow the instructions of local authorities, including any evacuation orders.

The Taal Volcanic Eruption is currently impacting flights in and around Manila. There is significant ash fall which is considered dangerous to your health.Contact your airline oor tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans. For more information visit Smartraveller. Overall exercise a high degree of caution in The Philippines. General advice:

Pay close attention to your personal security at all times and monitor the media about possible new safety or security risks.

Pay close attention to your personal security at all times and monitor the media about possible new safety or security risks.

Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere in the Philippines. Possible targets include public transport, hotels, shopping malls, restaurants, schools, events, places of worship and tourist areas. Be alert to possible threats.

The threat of kidnapping and piracy in the southern Philippines is very high, especially in coastal resorts, coastal waters and isolated locations. Kidnappers may target popular tourist areas. If you travel to the southern Philippines, despite our advice, get professional security advice. Ensure your accommodation has proper security measures. Don’t travel by boat.

Protests can turn violent. It’s illegal to take part in political rallies if you’re not Filipino. Avoid large public gatherings.

Violent and other serious crime is common. Many crimes involve guns. Gunfights between criminals and police are common. Gangs often drug tourists before robbing or assaulting them.

Pickpocketing, bag snatching and scams are common. Don’t leave food or drinks unattended. Don’t use public transport. Be careful in crowded shopping malls and other public places. Only use ATMs in secure locations.

Severe currents and rips are common in coastal areas. Many travellers have drowned, including in popular resorts. Some swimmers also get ill from pollution. Get local advice before swimming. Don’t swim where there are red flags on the beach.

New Zealand

Last updated: 09 Dec 2019. Still current at: 10 Dec 2019. Whakaari / White Island is an active volcano in New Zealand. On Monday 09 December it erupted without warning. About 50 people are believed to be on or near New Zealand’s White Island, and at least five people have been confirmed dead and up to two dozen are unaccounted for. If you are concerned about the welfare or whereabouts of a loved one, contact Smart Traveller by calling its 24-hour Emergency 1300 555 135 (within Australia) +61 2 6261 3305 (from overseas). Ash from the volcano could disrupt flights and airport operations. Contact your airline or tour operator directly for up-to-date information. If you’re in New Zealand, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities. Exercise normal safety precautions in New Zealand. General advice:

Crime rates are similar to those in Australia. Thieves often target vehicles. Don’t leave valuables in your car or campervan.

Earthquakes are a constant risk. Large, damaging quakes can happen at any time. Know what to do during and after an earthquake.

All of New Zealand’s coastline is at risk of a tsunami. Know the tsunami warning signs and move to high ground immediately. Don’t wait for official alerts.

New Zealand has several active volcanoes. A volcano erupted on White Island in the Bay of Plenty on 9 December 2019. Further eruptions are possible. Avoid the area and follow the advice of local authorities.

Weather conditions can change quickly. Severe weather could leave you stranded or injured, especially in an isolated area. If you’re climbing, hiking or in a remote area, register your trip with the Department of Conservation. Carry a personal locator beacon.

There’s an outbreak of measles in New Zealand. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date before you travel.

Pacific Countries

Updated: 03 Jan 2020. Current 14 Jan 2020. There’s currently an outbreak of measles in a number of Pacific countries, including Samoa, American Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, and New Zealand. Some countries now have stricter entry requirements to prevent the spread of the disease.

Sri Lanka

Last updated: 20 Nov 2019. Still current at: 14 Jan 2019. Exercise a high degree of caution in Sri Lanka. General advice:

Terrorism is a threat in Sri Lanka. Attacks could happen anywhere at any time. Terrorists may target tourist areas. Avoid crowds. Follow the advice of local officials.

Security has increased across the country following the 21 April 2019 terrorist attacks. Always carry travel and identification documents. Allow additional time to clear security checks, especially at airports.

There are marked and unmarked minefields and unexploded weapons in the Northern Province and parts of the Eastern Province. Stay on main roads. Pay close attention to landmine warning signs.

Flooding and landslides occur during the monsoon season. This is December to March in the north-east and May to October in the south-west. Be prepared to change your travel plans.

If you need to make a claim

If you are claiming additional expenses, make sure you keep a copy of all your receipts.

If your travel was cancelled or delayed by a transport provider, you may be able to claim some of your meal and accommodation costs through them.

Please check the terms and conditions of your transport provider’s ticket, and keep a copy of all their communication with you.

Take reasonable steps to minimise your claim. Contact your airline or Travel provider for assistance if you need to rearrange your travel plans.

Keep your receipts and any other supporting documentation e.g. travel provider cancellation letters. If you are claiming for additional meal, accommodation, and travel costs, please ensure you retain copies of all of your expense receipts.

Recent additions

Global Update 13 March 2020. Current
Due to the COVID-19 outbreak and WHO pandemic declaration, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has raised its level of advice for all overseas destinations to: Reconsider your need to travel.

Italy Update 11 March 2020. Current
Due to the COVID-19 outbreak the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has advise Australian’s to reconsider their need to travel to Italy. DFAT recommends you do not travel to Lombardy and other provinces in the north.

South Korea Update 07 March 2020. Current
DFAT has raised its level of advice for South Korea to: Reconsider your need to travel overall and Do not travel to Daegu due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Iran and Coronavirus Update 03 March 2020. Current
DFAT has issued a ‘Do Not Travel’ warning for Iran. If you’re in Iran, leave while commercial options are available.

Bali, Indonesia and Coronavirus Update 03 March 2020. Current
The Indonesian Government has confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in Indonesia. Australians should note the global situation with COVID-19 is changing very quickly.

China, Worldwide and Coronavirus Update 25 February 2020. Current
Due to the outbreak of COVID-19, DFAT has issued a ‘Do Not Travel’ warning for China. Related travel disruptions may be experienced worldwide.

Philippines Update 25 February 2020. Current
The Taal Volcanic Eruption is currently impacting flights in and around Manila. There is significant ash fall which considered dangerous to your health. Exercise caution while in the Philippines.

White Island New Zealand Update 10 December. Current
Following a volcanic eruption on White Island on 09 December, tourists are advised to exercise caution. Follow safety instructions given by authorities.

Bali (Indonesia) Updated 1 June 2019. Current
Mount Agung is an active volcano in Bali. Monitor news for warnings as further eruptions are possible.

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Benefits are subject to the terms and conditions (including the limits, sub-limits and exclusions) of the insurance policy. “Travel by Us” is a trading name of Insured by Us (ABN 84 604 520 952) located at Level 5, 63 York Street, Sydney, NSW 2000. The policy is issued through Agile Underwriting Services Pty Limited (AGILE) (ABN 48 607 908 243) and is underwritten by certain underwriters at Lloyd’s. Please make sure to read the Product Disclosure Statement and Financial Services Guide to make sure that the product meets your needs.

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Coronavirus Travel Alert

The Coronavirus outbreak has continued to develop and we want to ensure you understand how it effects your travel insurance.

If you are buying a new policy today, you will not be covered for any events related to Coronavirus.

If you bought your policy before 12:00am AEST on 20th January 2020, you may be covered as per the benefits of your specific PDS. We only cover cancellations if the destinations you are travelling to have been assigned a ‘Do Not Travel’ advisory warning by the Australian Government in their website https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/. We do not cover cancellation for change or mind or fear.

If you bought your policy after 12:00am AEST on 20th January 2020 and before 4:00pm AEST on 31st January 2020, you may be covered for claims directly related to travel delays as a result of quarantines at major airports directly related to the Coronavirus (2019-nCoV). Please be aware our policies only cover connecting flights where the stopover was originally scheduled on your itinerary for more than 6 hours.

If you bought your policy after 4:00pm AEST on 31st January 2020, you will not be covered for claims related to the Coronavirus (2019-nCoV). It would be expected the policy was entered into with awareness of the virus and its developments.